Tennessee Kicks Off Ramseur

Middle linebacker Chris Ramseur was kicked off the Tennessee football team on Wednesday by coach Phillip Fulmer.

Ramseur, who was to have begun his junior season this week, left school last spring for what were termed personal reasons. Fulmer said at the time he could regain his eligibility by meeting certain requirements.

Fulmer said Wednesday that Ramseur was dismissed for violating team rules.

"I am very disappointed in Chris because a lot of people were working to help him during a time he needed support," Fulmer said. "He did not live up to personal standards set by this program."

He said Ramseur can regain his eligibility for the purposes of transferring to another school if he resolves certain academic issues.

Ramseur was expected to battle for playing time at middle linebacker. He had 42 tackles last year as the backup to Al Wilson, and returned a fumble for a touchdown against Vanderbilt.

Fulmer also announced the senior defensive back Gerald Griffin of Murfreesboro is not among the 105 players reporting for the start of practice. He said Griffin is working to regain his eligibility and admission to the university. If Griffin does that, he can report to the team when classes begin on Aug. 25.

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